A former Post Office in Rotherham has undergone a total transformation and reopened as a micro-bar, thanks to funding from UK Steel Enterprise’s (UKSE) Kickstart Fund, serving locally sourced real ale, craft beer and ciders.

The newest addition to Rotherham’s Parkgate suburb, The Little Haven capitalises on a growing trend across the UK in which venues shun music and TVs in a bid to ‘bring people back together’.

Business owner and entrepreneur Rebecca Shaw (pictured centre) commented, “The theme of the pub is to go ‘back to basics’ hence why no music will play, by doing this I hope to create a niche environment where customers can enjoy a catch up with friends, a chilled evening playing board games or a chance to win at our weekly quiz night.”

Taking over the premises in May, Shaw set about fully refurbishing the former Post Office on Broad Street having received a £500 grant from UK Steel Enterprise’s Kickstart Fund which supports entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in the area.

Shaw added, “Having grown up in South Yorkshire, I’m proud to be representing the area and supporting the local economy by serving beers brewed in the region including a number from Rotherham’s Chantry Brewery as well as only stocking bar snacks produced by local businesses.”

Alan Stanley of UK Steel Enterprise (pictured right) said, “Micro bars are a growing trend focused on bringing people together and are proving to be very popular – it’s great that Rebecca has been able to make the most of this.

“The Kickstart fund was designed to help budding entrepreneurs fulfil their business goals and so it’s great to see The Little Haven thriving as a result.”